sincerely
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /sɪnsˈiəli/
US
- /sɪnˈsɪrli/
Description
- Honestly
- Genuinely
- Truly
- With real feeling
- From the heart
"Sincerely" is not just a way to end a letter. It is about how you mean what you say. Think of a heartfelt apology given sincerely, with real regret and a wish to make things right. It shows that your feelings or words are honest and real. You cannot sincerely pretend to like something, because the word carries the idea of true feeling behind what is said. It is often used as a formal closing ("Sincerely yours"), but it can also appear in everyday sentences: "She sincerely hoped her friend would recover quickly." It tells someone that you really mean it.
The word "sincerely" conveys genuineness, honesty, and heartfelt intention. It's more than just politeness; it signifies that your feelings or statements are authentic and free from pretense. While famously used as a closing in letters ("Sincerely," "Yours sincerely") to signal the end of formal correspondence with a touch of warmth, its meaning extends far beyond pen and paper.
You might speak sincerely when offering condolences to someone who has experienced loss. This isn't just saying you're sorry, but expressing genuine sympathy from the heart. Or perhaps you apologize sincerely, showing true remorse for your actions. "Sincerely" implies a deep belief in what you are communicating. It suggests that you aren't simply going through the motions or offering empty platitudes. If someone asks whether you enjoyed a movie, saying "I sincerely enjoyed it" emphasizes that your response is completely genuine.
However, be mindful! Overuse can sometimes sound formulaic. While perfectly acceptable in formal settings, sprinkling "sincerely" into every sentence might diminish its impact. It's best reserved for moments where you truly want to emphasize the authenticity and depth of your feelings or intentions.
Examples
- 1
Apology
I sincerely apologize for being late.
- 2
Thanks
We sincerely thank everyone who supported us.
- 3
Good wishes
I sincerely hope everything goes well tomorrow.
- 4
Honest belief
Do you sincerely believe he didn't know about it?
- 5
Personal feelings
He spoke sincerely about wanting to rebuild their friendship.
- 6
Formal signoff
Yours sincerely, Emma Patel
Usage
Yours sincerely
a formal way to end a letter or email
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- sincerelyadverb